Meaning of digital technologies for older adults through symbolic interactionism

Abstract

The relationship between older adults and digital technologies is a topic that has only recently been addressed by various authors. Approaches have ranged from examining whether older adults make use of these technologies, to analyzing the reasons behind either decision, the types of resources and tools they employ, the benefits they derive from them, their attitudes toward such technologies, as well as the barriers they encounter. However, little attention has been paid to exploring the meanings they attribute to these technologies and whether such meanings influence their engagement with them. The purpose of this article is to present the results of a study conducted to identify the meanings that this age group assigns to digital technologies. The elements considered in defining these meanings included the ideas, sensations, and images that emerge when older adults face or resort (whether out of necessity or pleasure) to digital devices, applications, services, and tools, as well as the role played (or not) by interaction and the exchange of opinions with others in shaping their behaviors and actions within the digital environment. Method. The study followed a qualitative design. The methodological approach employed was symbolic interactionism, which is based on the following premises: (a) human beings assign meanings to things; (b) these meanings are created, managed, and modified through a process of interpretation that occurs first at the individual level and subsequently at the social level through shared actions—that is, subjects interact and exchange meanings and symbols; and (c) based on these processes, individuals act upon things. An in-depth interview was conducted, using guiding questions that allowed participants to provide broad and reflective responses. Results. The ideas expressed were grouped into three dimensions: their physical character, their intangible nature, and their impact on daily activities. Sensations and images were ambivalent, encompassing both positive and negative feelings. Participants reported emotions such as amazement, excitement, frustration, uselessness, dependence on technologies and on other people for their use, as well as concern, among others. Interaction with others was also found to influence their approach to and use of digital technologies.